And at Scott’s Custom Jewelers in Columbus, Ohio? You can also try it on!

We know that designing a custom engagement ring from scratch can feel a little nerve-wracking. I mean, it’s one of the most sentimental pieces of jewelry you’ll ever buy, and the idea of not seeing it until it’s finished is enough to make anyone break out in a sweat. And that’s exactly why we built our whole custom design process around making sure you’re never left guessing.

What’s our secret? A 3D printed model of your ring. And it’s one of the coolest parts of what we do.

What Is a 3D Printed Engagement Ring Model?

Here’s how it works at Scott’s.

After our initial consultation, our CAD (computer-aided design) team will work up your ring design based on your ideas, photos, and inspiration and will send you hi-resolution photos of the piece using specialized jewelry design software.

Then, we take that digital design and print it. Literally. Our 3D printer creates a physical replica of your ring in a resin material that’s identical to the finished piece. We can even set the gemstones into place.

You get to hold it. Try it on. Look at it in the mirror. Show it to your best friend.

And if something’s not quite right – maybe the band feels a little too wide, or the setting sits a little higher than you’d like – we make those adjustments right then and there. At no extra charge.

Only when you’re completely in love with the model do we cast your ring in gold or platinum and set the real stones.

Why This Matters More Than You Might Think

“I’ve been looking online for weeks and I still can’t picture what I actually want.”

We hear this every.single.week. Shopping for a custom engagement ring is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. Pinterest boards are full of gorgeous rings. Instagram reels show them from the most flattering angles. AI creates jewelry that isn’t physically possible (more on that in another post!) But none of that tells you how a ring will actually look on your hand, with your stone.

But a 3D printed model does.

And for couples who want to design their ring together, which is becoming more and more common, this step is everything. You’re not trusting a sketch. You’re holding the real thing. (Well, almost the real thing.)

The Full Custom Ring Process at Scott’s: Step by Step

If you’re new to the idea of designing a custom engagement ring, here’s a simple look at how our process works from start to finish:

Step 1: The design consultation

We start with a conversation. In person at our Dublin, Ohio studio, or virtually if that’s easier. You bring your inspiration – photos, pins, sketches, a grandmother’s ring – and we start mapping out what you love. No pressure. No sales scripts. Just a real conversation about what you want.

Step 2: The CAD design

Our in-house CAD designers build a precise digital model of your ring. You’ll receive rendered images so you can see the design from every angle before anything physical is made. We’ll go back and forth with you on the details until it’s exactly right.

Step 3: The 3D printed model

This is the step most people don’t expect (and the one they love the most.) We print a physical model of your ring so you can try it on. This is where it becomes real. You’ll see the proportions, and can make any final tweaks before we cast in in our on-site.

Step 4: Casting and finishing

Once you’ve approved the model, our jewelers will cast your ring right here in our Columbus-area studio. We set your diamonds or gemstones – whether that’s a stunning lab-grown diamond, a family heirloom stone, or a mined diamond of your choice – and finish every detail by hand.

Step 5: You pick it up and fall in love

Seriously. This part is our favorite. There’s nothing like watching someone see their finished ring for the first time!

How Long Does This Take?

Great question! The custom process typically takes 4–6 weeks from first consultation to finished ring, depending on the complexity of the design. Because we design, print, cast, and set everything in-house, with three CAD operators and four jewelers on staff, we can generally move much faster than chain stores that outsource their work.

Can I Use My Own Stones in a Custom Ring?

Yes! In fact, that’s one of the things we do best. We love repurposing family diamonds and gemstones into brand new custom pieces. Your grandmother’s diamond. Your mom’s sapphire. A stone from a ring you no longer wear. Our CAD technology lets us design the new piece to fit your exact stone perfectly, and the 3D model means you’ll see exactly how it’ll look before anything is touched.

And yes — you can even trade in old gold toward the cost of your new ring. It’s one of the ways we help couples get more ring for their budget.

What About Lab Grown Diamonds?

If you haven’t heard about lab grown diamonds yet, here’s the short version: they’re chemically, optically, and physically identical to mined diamonds plus they cost 80–90% less.

That price difference means many of our clients are able to go significantly bigger on the center stone than they originally planned. A 2-carat lab diamond that might have been out of reach with a mined stone is suddenly very possible. And with our 3D model process, you can see exactly how that stone size will look on your hand before you commit.

Curious about whether a lab diamond is right for you? We wrote about that here → Is a lab grown diamond a real diamond?

Why Columbus Couples Choose Scott’s for Custom Rings

Scott’s Custom Jewelers has been a Columbus-area institution for almost 100 years and we’re now in its fourth generation as a family business. Scott, his wife, Beth and their sons Jacob and Nicholas have combined old-school craftsmanship with some seriously impressive technology to create a process that most national chain stores simply can’t match.

Here’s what makes us different:

• Everything is done in-house. Design, 3D printing, casting, and setting – all in our Dublin, Ohio studio.
• No pressure, ever. Our team works together with your vision, not a sales quota.
• You see it before we make it. The 3D model step isn’t optional. It’s standard in our process.
• You can bring your own materials. Old gold, family stones, broken jewelry you no longer wear. It all can become something beautiful.
• We’re proud to support our community. When you purchase a lab grown diamond from us, Scott’s makes a donation to the Dublin Food Pantry of $100 per carat of diamond.
• We’re also sustainable in other ways. We only use purified, recycled gold in our castings. And we’re also earned accredited retailer status with SCS-007 Jewelry Sustainability Standard for our practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You See Your Engagement Ring Before It’s Made?

Yes! Our 3D printed model is an exact physical replica of your design. You can put it on your finger, look at it in real life, and make changes all before we cast in metal.

Does seeing a 3D model cost extra?

Nope. It’s part of our standard custom design process. We believe you should never have to trust a sketch when you’re making a purchase this important.

How do I get started?

Easy. Book a free design consultation in person at our Dublin, Ohio studio or virtually from your couch. We’ll talk through your ideas, look at inspiration, and give you a realistic estimate. No obligation, no pressure.

What if I don’t know exactly what I want yet?

That’s honestly where we shine. Bring us a vague idea, a Pinterest board, or just a feeling. We’re great at helping people find their style, and the design process is collaborative the whole way through.

How long does it take to make a custom engagement ring in Columbus?

Most of our custom rings are completed in 4–6 weeks. Because everything is done in-house, we can often move faster than that depending on the design complexity.

Ready to See Your Ring Before It’s Made?

Come visit us at Scott’s Custom Jewelers in Dublin, Ohio — right in the Columbus area. Or if you’d rather start from home, we offer virtual consultations too.

Book your free design consultation here: Schedule your appointment

Bring your ideas. Your inspiration photos. Your grandmother’s ring. Your questions. We’ll take it from there. And we promise, you’ll leave knowing exactly what your ring will look like before we ever touch a piece of gold.

We’ve been answering this question for a long time. 99 years actually! Scott’s Custom Jewelers has been a family-owned shop since 1927 and now is in its fourth generation, so we’ve had this conversation with just about every kind of customer there is. Here’s how we explain it to our customers.

What Does the “K” Even Mean?

The “K” stands for karat, and it measures how much pure gold is actually in the piece. And to add a little more confusion into the jewelry mix, “C” means carat and pertains to the weight of the gemstone. Crazy, huh!

Pure gold is 24K, meaning 24 out of 24 parts are gold. But here’s the thing: pure gold is soft. Like, really soft. Think butter! It bends, scratches, and dents easily, which makes it pretty impractical for jewelry you wear every day. So jewelers mix it with other metals like copper, silver, zinc, or palladium to make it stronger, and to change it’s color from yellow to white, rose or even green. That’s where 10K, 14K, and 18K come in.

Here’s what that actually looks like:

• 10K gold = 41.7% pure gold
• 14K gold = 58.3% pure gold
• 18K gold = 75% pure gold

The rest is alloy metals. The more alloy, the more affordable the piece because it contains less gold. The more gold, the richer the color and the gentler it is on sensitive skin, but also the softer and pricier it gets.

These aren’t random ratios either. Gold karat mixtures are actually regulated by the Federal Trade Commission, and have to not only meet these standards, but be properly stamped as 10k, 14k or 18k.

10K Gold: The Workhorse

10K gold is the most budget-friendly. It’s the standard you’ll see at a lot of big box retailers and online stores because it keeps costs down without looking cheap, at least not at first glance.

**The good:**It’s also a great option if you want a bigger or heavier piece without spending a fortune.

**The not-so-good:** Because it has more alloy metals mixed in, 10K gold is more likely to cause skin reactions, especially if you have a nickel sensitivity. 10K can also be brittle. Depending on the alloys mixed in with the gold, 10K jewelry can crack or break more easily. It also tends to look slightly less warm and rich in color compared to 14K or 18K. Over time, it can tarnish a bit faster too.

**Best for:** People on a budget.

14K Gold: The Sweet Spot

This is the most popular karat in the US, and honestly, for good reason. 14K gold hits a balance that most people actually want: it’s durable enough for daily wear, it looks great, and it won’t break the bank the way 18K does.

**The good:** At 58.3% gold, 14K is strong enough to hold up for years of everyday wear without needing constant maintenance. It’s also less likely to cause skin irritation than 10K, though it still contains alloy metals.

**The not-so-good:** It still contains alloy metals, so if you have a serious nickel allergy, you’ll want to ask what the specific alloy mix is before buying.

**Best for:** Engagement rings, wedding bands, everyday rings, earrings, necklaces you wear daily. Basically, this is the go-to for most people.

18K Gold: The Luxurious One

18K gold has 75% pure gold in it, which gives it that deeper, richer yellow color you see in high-end jewelry, but again, 18K gold can also be white or rose color, not just yellow. It’s the standard in a lot of European countries and in fine jewelry design.

**The good:** The yellow color is stunning. It also has fewer alloy metals, which makes it a better choice for people with sensitive skin or metal allergies. If you’ve had reactions to other gold jewelry, 18K is worth trying. It’s also hypoallergenic in white gold and rose gold versions more often than lower karats.

**The not-so-good:** It scratches more easily than 10K or 14K because it’s softer. If you wear rings while doing dishes, cooking, or working out, you’ll notice wear faster. It’s also noticeably more expensive.

**Best for:** Special occasion pieces, earrings, necklaces that don’t take as much physical abuse as rings, and anyone with metal sensitivities. Also a great pick if a rich yellow color matters to you.

Fun fact: At Scott’s since we cast everything on site, if you love the rich yellow color of 18K gold, we offer a 14K “extra yellow” gold – the same durability of 14K gold, but with special alloys that look like 18K yellow gold. And priced like 14K too!

What About White Gold and Rose Gold?

The karat system works the same way across all gold colors. 14K white gold is still 58.3% gold, it’s just alloyed with white metals like palladium or silver and usually coated with rhodium for that bright white finish. 18K rose gold is 75% gold, alloyed with copper for that pink hue.

So when you’re comparing white or rose gold options, the karat choice still matters for the same reasons: durability, price, and skin sensitivity.

One More Thing: Gold Prices Are High Right Now. Here’s How to Use That to Your Advantage.

Gold prices have climbed significantly in recent months, and that does affect what you’ll pay for new jewelry. But here’s something a lot of people don’t think about: if you have old gold jewelry sitting in a drawer that you never wear, it has real value right now and you can put it toward something new.

At Scott’s, we accept old gold and recycle it. We sent it to a refiner who sends us purified gold that we use in casting it right here in our shop, on-site, into brand new pieces. That means the necklace your grandmother left you that isn’t your style, or the men’s ring from 20 years ago that doesn’t fit anymore, can become a completely new piece of jewelry that you’ll actually wear.

It’s a practical way to offset the cost of new gold without just eating the current market price. And honestly, there’s something kind of meaningful about it too. Old gold doesn’t disappear, it just becomes something new.

This also makes our process more sustainable than buying newly mined gold. We’ve been doing this since we started casting our own custom jewelry, and with where gold prices and environmental awareness both are right now, it’s worth knowing that’s an option.

If you’re curious what your old pieces might be worth toward something new, just bring them in. We’ll take a look.

Q: Is 14K or 18K gold better for an engagement ring?

A: It depends on the person’s lifestyle. 14K is better if they’re active, work with their hands, or are generally rough on jewelry. 18K is better if color richness and skin sensitivity are priorities, or if the ring won’t take a lot of physical abuse.

Q: Will 10K gold turn my finger green?

A: It can, especially if you have a sweat-prone skin type or a copper sensitivity. The higher the alloy content (like in 10K), the more likely a reaction. 18K is least likely to cause discoloration.

Q: Is 14K gold good quality?

A: Yes, absolutely. 14K is actually the most widely used karat in American fine jewelry. It’s not a “lesser” version of gold, it’s a practical, durable, beautiful choice that lasts for decades.

Q: Can I wear 14K gold in the shower?

A: Technically it won’t dissolve or immediately fall apart, but water, soap, and shampoo do dull gold over time and can weaken prong settings. Taking it off is the better habit.

Q: Why is 18K more expensive if it scratches easier?

A: Because the gold itself is worth more. You’re paying for a higher percentage of a precious metal. The trade-off is softness, but many people prefer 18K for pieces like earrings or pendants that don’t get as much friction.

Q: What karat gold is best if I have a nickel allergy?

A: 18K is your safest bet because there’s less room for alloy metals in the mix. But always ask the jeweler what specific alloys they use, because not all 18K gold is made the same way.

Q: Does higher karat gold last longer?

A: Higher karat gold is purer but softer, so it actually scratches and dents more easily. Lower karat gold (like 10K or 14K) lasts longer in terms of physical wear resistance because of the stronger alloy metals mixed in.

Q: Can I trade in old gold jewelry to put toward new pieces?

A: Yes, and with gold prices where they are right now, it’s actually a smart move. At Scott’s Custom Jewelers, you can trade in old gold towards the price of your new jewelry. It offsets the cost of your new piece and keeps old metal out of a drawer (or a landfill).

Q: Is recycled gold the same quality as newly mined gold?

A: Yes. Once gold is purified, it’s just gold. There’s no quality difference between recycled and newly mined gold at the same karat. The karat stamp tells you the gold content regardless of where the metal originated.

Q: How can I tell what karat my jewelry is?

A: Look for a stamp on the inside of rings or on the clasp of chains. Common stamps include 417 (10K), 585 (14K), and 750 (18K). These are the European hallmark equivalents. Not sure? Bring it in and we’ll tell you.

So Which One Should You Buy?

Here’s the honest answer: for most people buying everyday jewelry, 14K is the right call. It lasts, it looks great, it won’t eat your budget alive, and it works for the majority of skin types. If budget is a real concern and you want something durable, 10K does the job. If you have sensitive skin, love rich color, or you’re buying something that won’t take much physical wear, 18K is worth the splurge.

There’s no objectively “best” karat. It just depends on your life.

And if gold prices are making you hesitate, remember that old jewelry sitting in a box has real value right now. Scott’s Custom Jewelers has been casting jewelry from recycled, purified gold for generations. It’s one of the better-kept secrets in jewelry buying, and it’s worth a conversation before you write off a new piece as out of reach.

Have a question about gold jewelry we didn’t cover? Drop it in the comments below, stop by the shop or schedule a meeting (in person or Zoom) at the link below.

That’s the Dutch marquise diamond. The newest obsession in elongated diamond engagement ring styles.

We’ve been getting more and more inquiries about this cut lately, and we love it! It’s exactly the kind of diamond that was made for what we do here at Scott’s Custom Jewelers in Dublin, Ohio. So let’s talk about it.

So, What Exactly Is a Dutch Marquise Diamond?

Here’s a little diamond history for you. The classic marquise cut that you’ve seen all your life has been around since the 1700s. Legend has it that King Louis XV of France commissioned it to resemble the lips of his mistress. That traditional marquise shape is long and canoe-like, with soft curved sides and two pointed tips. Kind of like human lips, marquise cuts can be wide and poof-y, or thin and skinny. There’s no standard proportion to these shapes.

The Dutch marquise, on the other hand, takes that look and goes somewhere a little more unexpected. Instead of curved sides, it features straight edges that form a more geometric, hexagonal silhouette. Think of it as the marquise’s cool cousin – still elongated and elegant, still wildly flattering on the hand, but with a crispness and structure that feels fresh and edgy.

The faceting pattern (that’s the undercutting of the diamond) is brilliant cut, like round and marquise diamonds have, so you still get all of that incredible fire and sparkle. But the light moves through a Dutch marquise cut diamond a little differently. It has smooth, rolling flashes rather than sharp bursts. People are drawn to it without always being able to put their finger on why. It just has, I don’t know, presence.

Is the Dutch Marquise a New Diamond Cut?

This is where it gets interesting. The Dutch marquise is newer, but was inspired by historic European cutting traditions that came out of Dutch and Belgian. These diamond cutters prioritized depth, character, and individuality over technical uniformity. Kind of like Old Mine or Old European cuts. There’s definitely a vintage vibe in this shape.

And although it’s similar in outer diameter to an the older, elongated hexagon shaped diamond, there is a difference in the cutting. Hex cut stones do not have the brilliancy of the Dutch marquise.

But in terms of being widely available and trending in today’s engagement ring world? Yes, this is a newer cut that’s really only started gaining traction in the last couple of years. You won’t find it in every jewelry store. In fact, you probably won’t find it at any of the big chain stores around Columbus.

Which brings us to something exciting.

Why Dutch Marquise Diamonds Are Almost Always Lab Grown

Here’s something most people don’t realize when they start researching this cut: the Dutch marquise is predominantly available in lab grown diamonds. And that’s not a downside!

Because this is a newer, more niche shape, the cutting demand for it has emerged and grown primarily within the lab grown diamond world. Lab grown diamond producers can respond to market trends quickly, working with cutters to bring specialty shapes to the market faster than the traditional mining-and-supply chain allows. Which means if you want a Dutch marquise, you’re almost certainly looking at a lab grown stone.

And here’s the thing. We are huge fans of lab grown diamonds. Always have been.

Lab grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds. The FTC says so and gemologists agree. And without the enormous costs of mining operations, they typically run 80–90% less than a comparable mined diamond. That means you can get a stunning, larger Dutch marquise lab grown diamond for a fraction of what a mined stone in a more common shape would cost. That’s a genuinely incredible deal.

Plus, the companies we source from use solar power, pay fair wages, and operate responsibly. And, when you buy a lab grown diamond from us, we also make a donation to the Dublin Food Pantry ($100 per carat) as a way to give back to our community.

Learn more about lab grown diamonds at Scott’s Custom Jewelers.

Here’s the Part Most Jewelers Won’t Tell You: A Dutch Marquise Needs a Custom Ring

This is where the conversation usually gets really fun in our store!

So you’ve found your dream diamond and it’s a Dutch marquise. Now you go online or walk into a chain jewelry store looking for a setting… and you hit a wall. Because here’s the truth: standard ring settings are not designed for this shape.

Most pre-made engagement ring settings are built for round, oval, princess, or traditional marquise stones. The Dutch marquise, with its straight edges and specific geometric proportions, simply doesn’t fit into an off-the-shelf setting. And even if you could technically force a stone into a generic setting, you’d be doing the diamond a disservice. The prong placement would be wrong. The protection at those pointed tips (which are the most vulnerable part of any marquise-style stone) wouldn’t be right. The proportions would look off. And you may be fighting a constant battle of keeping the stone tight in the mounting.

The Dutch marquise deserves a setting that’s built for it. And that means custom.

The good news? That’s exactly what we do.

Why Scott’s Is the Right Place for This

We’ve been doing custom jewelry in Dublin, Ohio since 2000, and our family has been in the jewelry business for four generations. Scott and his sons have been using CAD (computer-aided design) technology and 3D printing in their design process for over 20 years, which makes us one of the most tech-forward custom jewelers in the Columbus area.

Here’s what that means for you and your Dutch marquise diamond:

We design the setting around your specific stone. No guessing, no forcing a square peg into a round hole. We start with your actual diamond’s dimensions and proportions and build from there. Think of it like a custom tailored suit. It fits perfectly!

You’ll see your ring before we cast it. Using our CAD software, we’ll show you exactly what your ring will look like. Then we’ll 3D print a model you can actually hold and try on, and you can still make changes at that point, at no extra charge. It’s honestly one of our favorite parts of the process. It eliminates the guess work.

We do everything in-house. Our jewelers and our CAD guys are all right here in our Dublin store. That means faster turnaround, better quality control, and a team that’s invested in getting your ring exactly right.

We know the nuances of this shape. When it comes to setting a Dutch marquise, the tip protection is critical. Those pointed ends need V-shaped prongs that properly cradle the stone without looking clunky or overwhelming the diamond’s elegant lines. The prong count, placement, and style all matter too. This is the kind of detail work we genuinely love.

What to Expect When You Come In

We’re not a walk-in, grab-a-ring-off-the-shelf kind of place. We’re a sit-down, let’s-talk-about-what-you-love kind of place.

When you come in (or even connect with us virtually), we’ll start with a conversation. What drew you to the Dutch marquise? What style of band do you love? What’s your lifestyle like? Do you work with your hands, or are you more of a desk-and-dinners person? Do you want it to look vintage, modern, or minimalist? All of this shapes the ring we’ll design together.

From there, we’ll source your stone and start sketching. And you’ll be involved every step of the way!

First-time custom jewelry buyer? No worries. Most of our clients are. We make it easy, and honestly, we make it really fun. In fact, you’ll never want your jewelry any other way!

Your Dutch Marquise Diamond Questions, Answered

We get a lot of the same questions when people start researching this cut, so let’s talk about it.

Q: Is a Dutch marquise diamond the same as a regular marquise?

Not exactly. A traditional marquise has curved sides and two soft pointed tips — that classic boat or eye shape. The Dutch marquise has straight edges instead of curved ones, giving it a more geometric, hexagonal outline. Same elongated silhouette, totally different personality. It’s a little more architectural.

Q: Are Dutch marquise diamonds hard to find?

Yes, and that’s kind of the point. This isn’t a shape you’ll stumble across at a mall jewelry store or on a big box ring website. It’s a specialty cut, which is exactly why people who wear it tend to love the fact that no one else has one just like it. We source them specifically for our customers here at Scott’s.

Q: Why is the Dutch marquise mostly available in lab grown diamonds?

Because it’s a newer shape that emerged and grew in popularity primarily within the lab grown diamond market. Lab producers can work with specialty cutters to bring new shapes to market much faster than the traditional mined diamond supply chain. So, if you want a Dutch marquise, a lab grown stone is almost always the way to go. Honestly, with the quality and savings involved, we think that’s a great thing.

Q: How much does a Dutch marquise lab grown diamond cost?

This varies based on carat weight, color, and clarity, but here’s the exciting part: lab grown diamonds typically run 80–90% less than mined diamonds of comparable specs. That means you can often get a noticeably larger, higher-quality Dutch marquise than you’d expect for your budget. We’ll always walk you through options so you know exactly what you’re getting and why.

Q: Can I use any ring setting for a Dutch marquise diamond?

This is a really important one and the answer is no. Standard pre-made settings are designed for round, oval, princess, or traditional marquise stones. The Dutch marquise’s straight edges and unique proportions require a setting built specifically for it. The prong placement, tip protection, and overall design all need to account for this shape. That’s why custom is really the only right answer here, and it’s what we specialize in.

Q: How do you protect the pointed tips on a Dutch marquise ring?

Great question, and something we think about carefully with every Dutch marquise setting we design. The pointed tips are the most vulnerable part of the stone and they need to be cradled by V-shaped prongs that protect the tips without obscuring the diamond’s beautiful lines. We typically recommend a 6-prong configuration, with prongs specifically positioned for this shape’s geometry. Every setting we design is engineered with both beauty and wearability in mind.

Q: Does a Dutch marquise make fingers look longer?

Oh yeah! Like the traditional marquise, the elongated shape of the Dutch marquise creates a flattering lengthening effect on the finger. It’s one of the reasons elongated diamond shapes have always been so popular for engagement rings. They’re genuinely beautiful on every hand!

Q: How long does it take to get a custom Dutch marquise engagement ring from Scott’s?

Generally around 4–6 weeks from design approval to finished ring, though simpler designs can move faster. Because we do everything in-house (CAD design, 3D printing, casting, and setting) we have much better control over our timeline than stores that outsource their work. We’ll always give you a realistic delivery estimate upfront though so you’re never left guessing.

Q: Do I need an appointment to talk about a Dutch marquise ring?

We love walk-ins, but for something this special, we really recommend scheduling a design consultation so we can give you our full attention. You can book in person at our Dublin studio or even do a virtual consultation if that’s easier. Either way, it’s a free conversation – no pressure, just a chance to explore what’s possible.

Ready to See What a Dutch Marquise Could Look Like on Your Hand?

If you’ve been searching for Dutch marquise diamond ring Columbus Ohio or lab grown Dutch marquise engagement ring Dublin Ohio and landed here then hi, hello and welcome. You’re in the right place!

We’d love to sit down with you, show you some diamonds, and start designing the ring that’s going to make your jaw drop when you see it come to life.

Start your custom ring journey here!

Scott’s Custom Jewelers has been creating one-of-a-kind jewelry in Dublin, Ohio since 2000. As a fourth-generation family jewelry business with in-house CAD designers, 3D printers, and goldsmiths, we specialize in custom engagement rings, lab grown diamonds, jewelry redesign, and everything in between.

These pieces are there not because they don’t matter anymore, but because maybe the style doesn’t fit who you lifestyle now, or because wearing them would feel strange, or because the setting is damaged and you’re not sure what to do. But they do hold memories, and Scott’s mom (a 2nd generation jeweler) always said, jewelry not worn is being wasted!

What most people don’t know is that those pieces can become something entirely new again. Something you’d actually wear every single day. Something that carries the original meaning forward into a design that feels like yours. We’re Scott’s Custom Jewelers in Dublin, Ohio, and jewelry redesign and restyling is one of the things we do best. Here’s everything you need to know about how the process works, what it costs, and why we think it’s one of the most meaningful things you can do.

What to Do With Inherited Jewelry You Don’t Like the Look Of

Let’s start with the most common scenario: you’ve inherited a ring or piece of jewelry that has real sentimental value but a style you wouldn’t choose for yourself. Maybe it’s a yellow gold setting with a big ornate design that feels dated. Maybe the stone is beautiful but the ring is too fragile for daily wear. Maybe it belonged to a relative you loved, and the thought of selling it or letting it sit in a box feels wrong.

The answer in almost every case is jewelry redesign. The gemstones, especially diamonds, are almost always in excellent condition and can be reused in a completely new design. The gold can be traded in and repurposed toward your new piece. What was once a 1970s yellow gold cocktail ring can be reimagined into a modern diamond wedding band, or a delicate halo pendant or a fun stacking ring you layer with others.

The original piece doesn’t disappear. The memory doesn’t get erased. It transforms. Redesign Inherited Jewelry You Don’t Wear.

Can I Use My Grandmother’s Diamond in a New Ring?

Absolutely! This is actually one of the main reasons we started our store, Scott’s Custom Jewelers. Reusing and repurposing diamonds and gemstones from inherited or unwanted jewelry is something we built our process around as a nearly 100 year old family business.

“We can make the new piece of custom jewelry to fit your own gemstones perfectly. Plus, you can see a 3D model of the piece BEFORE we cast it into gold or platinum, and make sure you love it.” — Scott’s Custom Jewelers

This is one of the most sustainable approaches to fine jewelry. You’re not discarding a stone that took nature (or someone you loved) a long time to produce. You’re giving it a new life in a form you’ll actually cherish.

The Part Nobody Tells You About: You Can See It Before We Make It

Here’s what sets Scott’s redesign process apart from most custom jewelry stores in the Columbus area, and honestly, from most jewelers anywhere: you get to see and actually try on a physical model of your new design before it’s actually cast into metal and stones are set.

Here’s how it works:

Step 1: The consultation

We start with a conversation. You bring in the jewelry you want to redesign, along with any inspiration images, Pinterest boards, or even just a general sense of what you like. Our design team will walk you through possibilities, talk through what stones and metals can be reused, and give you a price estimate.

We offer these consultations in person at our Dublin, Ohio store, or virtually — whichever works best for you. Oh, and there’s no charge for the initial consultation!

Step 2: CAD design

Once we understand your vision, our designers use CAD (computer-aided design) to create detailed pictures of your new piece. You’ll see images from multiple angles — not a sketch, but a photo-realistic digital rendering. Then, we can make adjustments and refine the design until it’s exactly right. Changes at this stage cost nothing extra.

Step 3: The 3D printed try-on model

This is the step most people don’t expect. Before we cast a single gram of gold or platinum, we 3D print an exact physical replica of your new piece. You can hold it, try it on, see how it fits and decide whether you want any final adjustments.

We love this part because it eliminates the anxiety most people feel about custom jewelry. You’re not committing to something you’ve only seen on a screen. You’re committing to something you’ve physically tried on.

Step 4: Casting and hand-finishing

After you’ve approved the 3D model, we cast your piece right here in our Dublin, Ohio shop. Every piece is finished by hand, which means the final product has the kind of attention to detail you don’t get from chain stores or online-only jewelers. Timeline is typically four to six weeks depending on complexity (often faster) because everything happens in-house, not sent out to be completed.

How Do I Recycle Old Gold Jewelry Toward a New Design?

Your old gold still has value, and at Scott’s, we apply that value directly toward the cost of your new piece. Bring in all your broken chains, old rings, outdated pieces you’ll never wear again, or even gold from the piece you’re redesigning. We send it to a refiner and will give you credit towards your new piece. It’s very sustainable!

In fact, we’ve only used recycled gold in all of our casting process – we’ve never purchased newly mined gold to melt! So when you bring us your old jewelry, it genuinely reduces both your cost and the environmental footprint of your new piece. The same applies to gemstones. Diamonds, sapphires, rubies, emeralds – if your existing stones are in good shape, they go directly into your new design. You’re not paying for new gems you don’t need. Talk about eco-friendly!

What Kinds of Jewelry Can Be Redesigned?

That’s the beauty of custom jewelry – we can make just about anything! The most common redesign requests we handle at Scott’s are:

• Inherited engagement rings or wedding bands can be reset into a new style, converted into a pendant or earrings, or combined with other family stones
• Old yellow gold jewelry credited towards platinum, white or rose gold
• Brooches and pins may have stones that can translate beautifully into rings or pendants
• Post-divorce ring redesigns – repurposing a stone and gold from a ring that carries complicated meaning into something that marks a new chapter, like a mother’s ring or pendant
• Anniversary upgrades – taking a first engagement ring and redesigning it for a milestone anniversary with added diamonds or replacing it with a bigger, lab grown diamond and using the original stone in a special pendant, worn close to the heart
• Multi-piece family heirlooms combined into one new piece with stones or metal from several relatives woven into a single meaningful design

How Much Does It Cost to Redesign Inherited Jewelry You Don’t Wear?

This is the question we get most often, and the honest answer is: it varies, but it’s usually much expensive than people expect, especially when you factor in recycled metal and existing stones. At Scott’s, we can give a good estimate of the final cost, before we begin, so there are no surprises. Plus there’s no high designer brand price. And best of all, you’ll create a high quality, gorgeous piece of jewelry, filled with memories! What’s better than that!

Custom jewelry doesn’t mean expensive — it means you get exactly what you want, without paying for features you don’t need. When you bring your own diamonds and gold, the savings can be substantial.

Why Dublin, Ohio Couples Come to Scott’s for Jewelry Redesign

Well for one, we’re not a chain store. We don’t send your jewelry out of state for weeks. We have an actual workshop in our Dublin, Ohio location — with laser welders, 3D printers, goldsmiths, and CAD designers all working under the same roof. That means faster turnaround, direct communication, and work done by people who care about the outcome.

Scott has been doing this for over 25 years using CAD technology. His sons Jacob and Nicholas are now part of the team, representing the fourth generation of family jewelers. When you bring us something precious, you’re handing it to people who genuinely understand what it means. We’ve helped families all over the Columbus area — and across the country through our virtual consultation service — transform jewelry that was sitting in a box into pieces they reach for every single day. The before-and-after transformations we’ve done are some of our best work, and we’re proud of every one of them.

Ready to find out what your inherited jewelry could become? Bring it in to our Dublin, Ohio store or schedule a free virtual consultation. We’d love to show you what’s possible. Schedule an appointment online or call 614-336-4111.

Here’s the thing most people in the jewelry industry won’t tell you: there’s no universally right answer, but there is a right answer for your situation. And figuring that out is a lot simpler than the diamond industry would have you believe.

We’re Scott’s Custom Jewelers, a fourth-generation family jewelry store in Dublin, Ohio. We’ve been making custom engagement rings in the Columbus area for over 99 years, and for the past nine years, we’ve worked extensively with both lab grown and mined diamonds. We know our stuff!

So here’s the honest, no-marketing-spin breakdown of what you actually need to know before you buy any diamond.

Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?

Let’s start here, because this question still causes confusion. Yes, absolutely, a lab created diamond is a real diamond. Not a simulant, not a fake, not a “diamond alternative.”

Lab grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to diamonds mined from the earth. That’s not a marketing claim – it’s the position of the Federal Trade Commission, which updated its guidelines in 2018 to reflect that lab diamonds are, in fact, real diamonds. The only difference is their origin: one formed underground over billions of years, and one was grown in a highly controlled laboratory environment in a matter of weeks.

Can a jeweler tell if my diamond is lab grown or mined?

Short answer: no. Without a very expensive piece of equipment, no jeweler can tell the difference between a lab grown diamond and a mined one by simply looking at it. Both lab and mined diamonds are graded using the same 4Cs — cut, carat, color, and clarity.

But, some mined diamonds, and most larger lab diamonds now also carry a laser-etched certification number on the girdle of the stone (it’s teeny tiny!) that does show the lab where it was graded, and will identify if it’s mined or lab created. A jeweler can easily look up that number and identify the origin.

Think of diamonds this way: a tomato grown in a greenhouse and a tomato grown in a garden are both tomatoes. The greenhouse version is often more consistent in quality (and usually costs less) because the environment is controlled. The garden version has a longer, more unpredictable story behind it. Yet, both are real tomatoes. Same with diamonds.

How Much Cheaper Are Lab Grown Diamonds Than Mined Ones?

This is where the numbers get interesting. Lab grown diamonds currently cost somewhere between 80 and 90% less than mined diamonds of comparable quality. That’s not a small difference.

Consider this: a well-cut 2-carat mined diamond that is graded at F/VS might run about $18,000 to $25,000. But a lab grown 2-carat diamond of equivalent quality only cost $1,800 to $2,000. Yikes! That’s money that can go toward a house, a honeymoon, or a much more elaborate custom ring setting than you thought you could afford.

At Scott’s, we consistently see couples who come in with a modest budget leave with significantly larger and more dramatic stones than they expected, simply because they’re open to lab grown diamonds. And the rings are stunning, btw.

Let’s Talk About Resale Value — Honestly

This is the question everyone dances around, and we’re not going to do that. Here’s the honest truth on lab diamond vs. mined diamond resale value:

Lab grown diamonds do not hold resale value well. Most will retain somewhere between 10 and 20% of their original purchase price in the secondary market. That sounds harsh until you compare it to mined diamonds, which also only retain 10 to 20% of their retail price. The reality is that diamonds have long been marketed as investments. But they really are not!

The math that most people miss: if you buy a $20,000 mined diamond and are able to sell it for 20% of value, you get $4,000 back, but you’ve lost $16,000 of your investment. But if you buy a $2,000 lab diamond and resells for $200, you’ve only lost $1800. In absolute dollar terms, the person who bought the lab diamond almost always comes out ahead. And that’s why people come to us to restyle their old diamonds into new pieces!

Unless you’re purchasing rare investment-grade colored diamonds or exceptionally large, flawless stones, no diamond – mined or lab grown – is a reliable financial investment. Jewelry is not a savings account. It’s a symbol.

If you’re buying an engagement ring because you love each other, because the ring means something, because you want it to be beautiful and meaningful, lab grown diamonds, or a family diamond that is repurposed, is a financially smart choice that sacrifices nothing in quality or beauty.

If you have a strong personal or sentimental reasons to prefer a mined stone, that’s also a completely valid choice. We offer conflict-free mined diamonds too, and we’ll help you find something extraordinary at either price point.

What Is the Quality Difference Between Lab and Earth-Mined Diamonds?

In most practical senses, there isn’t one. Both types are graded on the 4Cs. Both can have excellent cut, high color grades, and minimal inclusions. If anything, lab diamonds tend to be more consistent because production is controlled. You rarely see the wide quality variances that can show up in mined stones.

One technical distinction: GIA recently announced it will use a simplified two-tier grading system (Premium and Standard) for lab diamonds rather than the full 4C scale. This reflects the fact that about 95% of lab diamonds have the same high quality grades, a testament to how precise and consistent the growing process has become.

By the way, there are two techniques to produce lab diamonds – HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) and CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition). Both methods produce genuine, gemstone-quality diamonds.

At Scott’s, we are all about sustainability. All of the lab diamonds we source come from companies that use solar power in their production process and pay livable wages to their employees because this ethical decision is something many of our clients care deeply about.

How to Pick a Lab Diamond That Sparkles as Much as Natural

The secret to a firecracker of a diamond is almost entirely in the cut. A well-cut diamond will always outperform a poorly cut diamond, both lab and mined. We tell our customers to always prioritize cut quality first — then color and clarity.

For a round brilliant diamond, look for an Excellent or Ideal cut grade. For fancy shapes (oval, pear, cushion, radiant), you’re going to need some professional advise, so work with a jeweler you trust and evaluate the gemstone in person. This is one reason we always encourage clients to visit us in Dublin — looking at diamonds in person, in good lighting, tells you more than any certificate will.

So here are some tips when working with your jeweler:

• Prioritize Excellent or Very Good cut grades
• For colorless appearance, color grades D–G are ideal (H–J are often eye-clean and more budget-friendly when you are choosing a mined diamond)
• VS1 or VS2 clarity is typically the sweet spot and most lab diamonds fall in this category. Again for budget reasons, SI or SI1 clarity is somewhat clean to the naked eye and affordable for mined diamonds
• Look for an IGI or GIA certificate for any lab diamond over 0.75 carats
• Ask your jeweler to show you the stone in natural light, not just under display lighting

The Conflict-Free and Sustainability Angle

Lab grown diamonds are inherently conflict-free. There’s no supply chain to trace back to a mining region. For many couples – especially those with ethical concerns about the traditional diamond industry, this is a significant factor.

At Scott’s Custom Jewelers, we guarantee that all diamonds we provide, whether mined or lab grown, come from conflict-free sources. And we only use recycled, purified gold in our casting process. In fact, we’ve never needed to purchase newly mined gold, sustainable gold.

Also, when we first started offering lab grown diamonds to our customers, we make a decision to give back to the community even more, so when you purchase a lab grown diamond from Scott’s, we make a donation to the Dublin Food Pantry as part of our community commitment. It’s a small thing, but it means something to us.

So, Are Lab Grown Diamonds Worth Buying for an Engagement Ring?

For the overwhelming majority of couples we work with in Columbus and Dublin, the answer is yes. You get an identical stone in every way that matters visually and emotionally, at a fraction of the cost, with full ethical peace of mind, and more budget left over to put toward a more impressive custom design.

But this isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. If you want a mined stone for personal, traditional, or investment reasons, we fully support that too. The best decision is the one that fits your values, your priorities, and your budget. If you’re trying to figure out which direction is right for you, the best thing you can do is come in and look at both side by side. We have lab grown and mined diamonds available, and our team is genuinely good at helping you find your style without pressure.

Ready to see what your budget can really do? Schedule a free design consultation at Scott’s Custom Jewelers in Dublin, Ohio — in-person or virtually. We’ll show you exactly what’s possible.

Book your appointment here

Why? Because oval shaped diamonds check pretty much every box. They look bigger than other shapes of the same carat weight, they’re elegant but still modern, and they flatter literally every hand.

It’s the perfect mix of timeless and trendy.

Why Oval Engagement Rings Are So Popular

There’s a reason oval engagement rings are everywhere right now. It’s actually pretty simple.

They look bigger! I mean – size does matter when it comes to diamonds

Oval diamonds naturally have more surface area too, so they appear larger than round diamonds of the same weight.

They’re timeless but fresh.
Oval engagement rings have a classic feel, but still stand out from traditional round diamonds.

They work with every style.
Solitaire, hidden halo, three stone, yellow gold, platinum – oval diamonds look good in everything.

Hidden Halo Engagement Rings Are a Close Second

The second most popular engagement ring style we’re seeing is the hidden halo engagement ring.

A hidden halo adds a small circle of diamonds underneath the center stone. You don’t see it from the top, but from the side, it adds extra sparkle.

It’s subtle, custom, and makes the center diamond pop.

Read more about custom design:
https://scottscustomjewelers.com/custom-engagement-rings-in-columbus-ohio-everything-you-need-to-know/

Lab Diamond Engagement Rings Are Now the Most Requested Option

Most of our customers in the Columbus area are choosing lab diamond engagement rings, especially for oval shapes. (Those Buckeyes are smart!) And for good reason.

Lab diamonds:

• Give you a bigger look for the budget
• Are identical to natural diamonds chemically, optically and physically
• Are eco-friendly, sustainable and ethically sourced
• Perfect for custom engagement ring budgets

In fact, most people can afford a bigger carat size without increasing their total engagement ring budget.

Learn more here:
https://scottscustomjewelers.com/lab-grown-diamonds-lp/

The Most Popular Engagement Ring Style Overall

If we had to sum it up, the most popular engagement ring style right now is an oval lab diamond engagement ring with a hidden halo in yellow gold. Total perfection!

It’s modern, timeless, and completely customizable.

But the real trend? Custom engagement rings designed specifically for the person wearing it.

Because the best engagement ring isn’t just popular — it’s personal.

Ready to Design Your Own Engagement Ring?

We’ll help you design a custom engagement ring in Columbus that fits your style, your budget, and your story.

Schedule a consultation here:

Why you ask? Well, more couples are choosing engagement rings for both partners. Plus guys like jewelry too – and it’s a chance to show some personal style!

At Scott’s Custom Jewelers, we’ve seen a steady increase in requests for custom men’s engagement rings, especially from couples who want something intentional to mark this special occasion.

Why Men Are Wearing Engagement Rings

There are several reasons why men today are wearing engagement rings now. Of course, it’s mainly to show commitment. But also, they want to express their personal style, and embrace modern traditions.

In fact, plenty of celebrities are on the mangagement trend (Ed Sheeran and Michael Bublé to name a few), as well as the rise in same sex marriages. Men’s engagement rings are a meaningful way to celebrate love and equality in relationships

The “mangagement ring” — aka a men’s engagement ring — has become a big part of modern proposals. More couples are choosing engagement rings for both partners, and honestly, it just makes sense.

I mean, if she gets a ring during the engagement, why shouldn’t he?

At Scott’s Custom Jewelers, we’re seeing more requests than ever for custom men’s engagement rings — from simple bands to custom designed-from-scratch pieces.

What Is a Mangagement Ring?

A mangagement ring is simply a men’s engagement ring worn during the engagement period before the wedding band. Sometimes it will merge into the wedding band, but there are no rules!

We’ve made men’s engagement rings that are actually half of the wedding band. After the wedding, we join the two together, making a super special, custom band. There’s no rulebook anymore – that’s the fun part!

Top Men’s Engagement Ring Trends for 2026

If you’re Googling “men’s engagement ring ideas” or “mangagement ring styles,” here’s what’s trending right now:

1. Black Diamond Men’s Engagement Rings

Black diamonds are huge right now! In both white and yellow gold, black diamonds steal the show! We love them because they’re bold without being flashy. Clean. Modern. Strong.

A black diamond men’s ring gives you that subtle edge without looking like a traditional engagement ring.

2. Mixed Metal Rings

Yellow gold with white accents. Platinum with trendy brushed finishes. Rose gold with embossed designs. A simple thin white gold band, later stacked with a thin gold band after the wedding. These cool, mixed metal men’s engagement ring ideas add contrast and personality without being over the top.

3. Matte & Brushed Finish Bands

Matte, satin, and brushed finishes are trending because they look modern, feel masculine and, conveniently, don’t show scratches as easily. If you want something low-key but still stylish, a custom finished on the band is it.

4. Alternative Metal Men’s Rings

Damascus steel. Titanium. Tungsten. Carbon fiber. These materials are a popular choice in custom men’s engagement rings because they’re different from a traditional wedding band, but still look like “you’re taken.”

5. Men’s engagement necklaces

Sometimes it’s not a ring. Men’s engagement necklaces are also on the rise. From a simple bezel set diamond, to more complex designs mimicking the fiancé’s engagement ring, custom necklaces are a great way to gift a guy something special too!

And with super affordable lab grown diamonds, why not? Guys deserve to shine too!

How Much Does a Men’s Engagement Ring Cost?

Most men’s engagement rings range from $200 to $5,000+ depending on:

• Metal choice
• Gemstones
• Custom design details
• Width and weight

A simple sterling silver or tungsten band will costs less. A custom black diamond mangagement ring with mixed metals will cost more. But either way, we design around your budget.

Should Men Wear an Engagement Ring on the Left Hand?

Usually, yes. Most men wear their engagement ring on the left ring finger, just like their fiancé. The idea is to show he’s taken!

Others may choose the right hand during engagement and switch later. There’s flexibility now — which is refreshing.

Why Go Custom for a Men’s Engagement Ring?

You can absolutely buy a ready-made band, but a custom men’s engagement ring lets you pick your metal and gemstones. It also allows you to control the thickness and width of the band, and add special engraving or designs.

At Scott’s Custom Jewelers, we use CAD design and 3D printing so you can see your ring before it’s made.

It’s not just jewelry. It’s built around you.

Who Is a Mangagement Ring For?

• Modern couples
• Style-conscious grooms
• Same-sex couples
• Anyone who wants shared symbolism
• Men who don’t want a “basic band”

Final Thoughts on Men’s Engagement Rings

The biggest trend?

Choices.

Men are choosing engagement rings that reflect their personality, lifestyle, and relationship — not tradition.

Whether it’s a black diamond men’s ring, a mixed metal band, or a custom design, the mangagement ring is officially part of modern engagement culture.

And we’re here for it!

Ready to Design a Custom Men’s Engagement Ring?

If you’re thinking about a mangagement ring, let’s design one that actually feels like you. Schedule a consultation with Scott’s Custom Jewelers and let’s build something meaningful.

And not just okay, it’s actually one of the most meaningful things many of our clients do.

Here at Scott’s Custom Jewelers in Columbus, Ohio, we’ve helped generations of couples redesign, refresh, and restyle their rings. I mean, we’ve been in the “love business” now for close to 100 years! And almost every time someone asks this question, it comes with a little guilt.

“I still love my ring… I just want to update it.”
“It feels sentimental… but it doesn’t really fit my style anymore.”
“Is it wrong to change it?”

The answer is simple: your ring is a symbol of your life together — and your life grows and changes. Your ring can too. We always say, styles change, gold wears away and fingers change. What was perfect years ago now can use a little update!

Why People Upgrade Their Wedding Rings?

There’s no single “right” reason. Some of the most common ones we hear in our Columbus showroom:

• An anniversary or milestone (10, 20, 25 years together)
• A change in style
• A ring that no longer fits (it happens to all of us!)
• Wanting to incorporate family diamonds or gemstones into the ring
• Or simply… “I’m ready for a refresh”

Your marriage didn’t stop growing on your wedding day. Neither did you.

Does Upgrading Your Ring Mean You Didn’t Love the Original?

Oh my gosh, not at all! In fact, we see upgrades as the opposite.

Your original ring represents where your story started.
Your updated ring represents how far you’ve come.

Many of our clients keep their original stones and build around them, preserving the sentiment while improving the look, comfort, or style.

Easy (and Affordable) Ways to Upgrade Your Wedding Ring

So now that that’s settled, what’s the next steps? Upgrading doesn’t have to mean starting over — and it definitely doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank.

Here are some of our favorite ways to refresh a ring.

Add a Diamond Halo

One of our favorites! A halo can make your center diamond look bigger or even change the shape of the original stone. Halos also add tons of sparkle and can completely transforms the look without replacing your main stone.

Depending upon the structure of the original wedding ring, adding a halo is one of the most cost-effective visual upgrades we do.

Add Stacking Rings or Anniversary Bands

We love a good stack! Adding stacking rings is a trendy, sentimental way to tell your life’s story. Plus, you can add one at a time over the years, making it an affordable option.

Stacking bands are perfect for commemorating significant milestones in your life. Anniversaries, birthdays, big milestones, even a ring to represent a child – your wedding stack can make your original ring feel brand new again.

Upgrade the Center Stone (Hello, Lab Diamonds!)

With today’s affordable lab grown diamonds, upgrading your center stone is more accessible than ever.

Adding a new lab diamond center stone let’s you go bigger or change the shape of your wedding ring at a bargain because they are 80-90% less than natural diamonds!

Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds, and they’ve opened the door for so many clients to finally get the ring they’ve always dreamed of. So many of our customers have upgraded their rings with bigger, higher quality lab diamonds, then set their original stone into a pendant, that they can wear close to their hearts.

(We explain lab diamonds more here → Is a lab grown diamond a real diamond?

Use Family Diamonds or Gemstones

One of our favorite things to do at Scott’s is blend generations together. Adding a family stone to your wedding ring – maybe in a trendy Toi et Moi or Three-Stone design – is so meaningful!

Suddenly, your ring isn’t just jewelry — it’s a family story you can wear every day.

Why Winter Is the Perfect Time to Upgrade or Restyle Your Ring

After the holidays, we see an upturn in wedding ring restyling at our store. Winter is rough in Columbus, Ohio, but it’s our favorite season for ring redesigns — and here’s why:

• You’re indoors more, scrolling reels and Pinterest
• You’re thinking about fresh starts and spring cleaning
• Jewelry tends to come out of the drawer this time of year
• And there’s less rush than during engagement season

We like to call it “Spring cleaning your jewelry box… before spring even gets here.”

It’s the perfect time to bring in your old pieces, remove the stones and recycle that gold (another cost saving move) and turn forgotten jewelry into something you’ll love again.

Is It Expensive to Redesign a Wedding Ring?

It doesn’t have to be. Redesigning your wedding ring lets you reuse your gold and stones, so you preserve the memories. And, with sustainable, affordable lab diamond options, we can design around your budget.

Most people are surprised by how affordable restyling can be compared to buying something brand new.

Our Philosophy at Scott’s Custom Jewelers in Columbus, Ohio

My mom, who worked in the family business with my dad, used to say, it was sinful for jewelry to sit in a drawer. Wear it! And we couldn’t agree more.

We believe jewelry should be worn, adored, and fit the life you’re living now.

And after four generations in the jewelry business, we can tell you — some of the most emotional, meaningful pieces we create are upgraded and redesigned rings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to change my wedding ring?

Absolutely. Many couples upgrade or redesign their rings to celebrate milestones or match their current style.

Should I keep my original diamond?

If you love it — yes! We often design around original stones to preserve the sentiment.

Can I upgrade my ring on a budget?

Yes. Using lab diamonds, halos, stacking bands, or your existing materials keeps costs very reasonable.

Can you use my old or family jewelry?

We specialize in that. It’s one of our favorite parts of custom design.

Thinking About Upgrading Your Wedding Ring in Columbus?

Whether you want a simple refresh, a bigger center stone, a more modern look, or a meaningful family redesign., we can help.

Make your appointment (in person or virtual) here:

Or stop into Scott’s Custom Jewelers in Columbus, Ohio and let’s take a look at what you have, and what it could become.

So let’s talk honestly about the question we hear all the time in our custom jewelry showroom:

“What are the disadvantages of lab grown diamonds?”

Lab grown diamonds have become incredibly popular in Columbus (actually, they’re popular in the entire country!) and we totally get why. I mean, they’re beautiful, affordable, and check off all the sustainability boxes. No wonder they’ve become the hottest selling gemstone for a custom engagement ring!

Here at Scott’s Custom Jewelers in Columbus, Ohio, we work with both lab grown and natural diamonds every single day. We also specialize in reusing diamonds and gemstones that you already own in your designs (another nod to sustainability). We don’t believe in pushing one gem over the other, and work with you to help you make the right decision for you.

First Off: What Is a Lab Grown Diamond?

A lab grown diamond is a real diamond. Same sparkle. Same hardness. Same chemical structure. The only difference is where it’s grown. We have been following lab grown diamonds for over 10 years now, and when the Federal Trade Commission said they were exactly the same chemically, physically and optically, we started offering them to our customers.

Here’s what they are:

• Natural diamonds grow in the earth over billions of years
• Lab diamonds are grown in a lab in a few weeks using advanced technology

Also, lab diamonds are not fake and not cubic zirconia. In fact, if a jeweler says they can tell a lab diamonds from a mined diamond without special equipment, they’re lying.

(We explain this more here → https://scottscustomjewelers.com/lab-grown-diamonds-lp/)

The Disadvantages of Lab Grown Diamonds

We’re all about transparency! There are a few things you should absolutely know before choosing a lab diamond for an engagement ring or custom jewelry piece.

1. Lab Grown Diamonds Do Not Hold High Dollar Value Like Natural Diamonds

This is the biggest difference, but it comes with an explanation.

Lab diamonds:

• Are not rare
• Can be produced in unlimited quantities
• Continue to drop in price as technology improves

Because of this, lab grown diamonds do not retain or increase in value like natural diamonds sometimes can. Now for the explanation: Natural diamonds are also not “rare” but rather the amount available to the public is controlled by the mining companies, kind of like fossil fuels.

And even more importantly, natural diamonds may have higher worth, but unless you’re a diamond wholesaler, you won’t get the full value of either a lab or mined diamonds if you need to sell it. At best, you’ll get 20% of it’s worth if you have to sell your diamond to a pawn shop.

Simple math time. Say you spend $10,000 on a natural diamond and you need to sell it. You’ll most likely get $2,000 for it, but will have lost $8,000. Ouch.

Same situation, but with a lab grown diamond. You spend $1,000 on it (because they’re about 90% less expensive than mined stones) and need to sell it. You’ll get about $200 for it at a pawn shop, but will only have lost $800! That’s a much better scenario!

Why many Columbus buyers are still okay with this:

Most people aren’t buying an engagement ring as an investment. They’re buying it to celebrate a relationship, and they plan on wearing it everyday. Lab diamonds check off those boxes!

And lab diamonds let you get a bigger, more impressive diamond because they are 80-90% less than diamonds mined from the earth. Plus, they are sustainable and conflict free.

2. Lab Diamond Prices Keep Dropping

Yes, just like electronics and appliances, this is true. Lab diamond prices have come down a lot over the past few years, due to more companies getting into the market, but those prices now seem to have stabilized.

The upside for you:

With a much lower cost than natural diamonds, you can invest more of your budget into the design and craftsmanship of the ring, giving it even more meaning!

We see this every day in our Columbus custom design studio.

3. Lab Grown Diamonds Are Not Rare

Some people love the idea of a diamond formed naturally over billions of years. That story matters to them, and that’s completely valid. But then again, natural diamonds aren’t as rare as they’ve been marketed to be. It’s supply and demand!

The romance of a mined diamond is pretty cool. And, as sustainable jewelers, we absolutely LOVE to reuse diamonds and gemstones from family pieces, because of the stories associated with these stones!

And that brings us to a super important point:

What actually makes your engagement ring unique:

It’s all about the story. At Scott’s Custom Jewelers, your ring is unique because YOU call the shots! We’ll work with you to create a piece that fits your style, your hand, your story!

The design and the meaning associated with the piece, is what makes it special.

See some of our custom jewelry projects

Pros and Cons of Lab Grown Diamonds (Quick List)

Pros

• Cost 80-90% less than natural diamonds
• Bigger or higher quality diamond for your budget
• Real diamond (same sparkle, same durability same material)
• Excellent for everyday wear as a custom engagement rings
• Great option for an anniversary upgrades and statement rings
• No mining required, no social conflicts
• Consistent quality and availability

Cons

• Do not hold or increase in value
• Prices continue to drop over time
• Limited resale or trade-in value
• Not rare or finite

Why So Many Columbus Couples Choose Lab Diamonds

That’s the big question. We actually sell more lab diamonds at our Columbus store than any store in Ohio! Customers have chosen lab diamonds because they check so many boxes:

• More affordable, so they can have a bigger center stone
• High quality lab diamonds offer better quality, clarity and color for the price
• Able to afford a more detailed custom setting for their engagement ring
• Or all the above!

We regularly hear in our Columbus showroom, “I never thought I could afford something like this.” That’s one of our favorite things about lab diamonds.

Our Honest Opinion at Scott’s Custom Jewelers

We love them all!

• Lab diamonds
• Natural diamonds
• Family diamonds
• Vintage diamonds
• And everything in between

They’re just different tools for different goals.

Our job is to educate you, show you the real differences, and help you choose what fits your priorities and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lab Grown Diamonds

Are lab grown diamonds real diamonds?

Yes. Lab grown diamonds are chemically, optically and physically identical to natural diamonds.

Do lab grown diamonds look different than natural diamonds?

No. Even gemologists need special equipment to tell them apart.

Are lab diamonds cheaper than natural diamonds?

Yes. Lab diamonds typically cost 80–90% less than natural diamonds of the same size and quality.

Do lab grown diamonds lose value?

They don’t “lose” value — but they don’t hold value or appreciate like natural diamonds might.

Are lab diamonds good for engagement rings?

Absolutely. They are durable, beautiful, and perfect for everyday wear.

Should I buy a lab or natural diamond?

That depends on:

• Your budget
• Your priorities
• Whether size, value retention, or tradition matters more to you

We help Columbus clients compare both every day in our showroom.

Thinking About a Custom Engagement Ring?

Whether you’re considering lab grown diamonds, natural diamonds, or a combination of both, we’d love to help you design something that fits your style, your budget, and your story.

Make your FREE custom jewelry appointment (both in person and virtually) here

Or stop into Scott’s Custom Jewelers and let’s design something amazing together.

Short answer? Yes.

Long answer? Well, let’s break it down realistically, without the jargon, without the hype, and with the almost 100 years of perspective we’ve gathered and shared here with our customers.

What Are Laboratory Diamonds, Really?

Laboratory diamonds (also called lab-grown or lab-created diamonds) are definitely real diamonds. They have the same chemical composition, crystal structure, sparkle, and hardness as mined diamonds. The difference is where they’re formed—not what they are.

Instead of growing underground over billions of years, lab diamonds are created in controlled environments using advanced technology that replicates natural diamond growth.

The diamond “rough” or crystal is then graded by the same gemological laboratories, cut by the same artisans, and set into fine jewelry just like mined diamonds.

We like to compare lab diamonds to babies… I know, but hear me out! Some babies are conceived a couple of ways. One way is with a little help from a lab. Another, is the old fashioned way But people don’t identify them as a “test tube baby” because they are simply, a baby!

Just a note though: Lab diamonds are significantly less expensive than mined diamonds. The same can’t be said for IVF conception!

A Short History On Lab Diamonds

Lab diamonds aren’t new, even if they feel like a modern day trend.

Scientists first successfully created diamonds in laboratories in the 1950s, initially for industrial uses. They were used on cutting tools because of their strength. Over time, technology improved dramatically, and by the early 2000s, gem-quality lab diamonds entered the fine jewelry world.

In the last decade though, lab diamonds have truly come into their own, offering beauty, transparency, sustainability and value that today’s couples and jewelry lovers care deeply about. We’ve watched this shift firsthand and have shared the evolution regularly on our blog as education and consumer awareness have grown. In fact, we were one of the first jewelry stores to offer lab grown diamonds in Ohio!

So… Are Laboratory Diamonds Worth Anything?

Absolutely—but it’s important to understand how their value works.

Lab diamonds hold value as fine gemstones and as wearable luxury. What they don’t promise is speculative or investment-style appreciation. And honestly? That’s true for most diamonds, mined or lab-grown.

In fact, unless you are in the diamond wholesale business, jewelry as an investment is not lucrative, no matter what the big jewelry cartels’ companies say.

Here’s an example. Say you have a 1ct mined diamond engagement ring that you paid $10,000 for ten years ago. Now you want the cash. Your main option, is a pawn shop, where they’ll give you, generously, 20%, or $2,000. You’ve just lost 8K on your investment.

Now you have the same situation with a 1ct. lab diamond ring that you paid $1000 for. Again, best option is a pawn shop and 20%, so you get $200. But… you only realized a loss of $800. Big difference! That’s really the reason people restyle their jewelry instead of selling it. They don’t lose monetary value, AND they keep the memories!

Affordability: More Diamond for Your Budget

One of the biggest reasons people choose lab diamonds is simple: you get more bling for your money.

Lab diamonds typically cost significantly less (80-90% less) than comparable mined diamonds. That means they can afford:

• A larger center stone
• Higher color or clarity
• Room in the budget for custom design or upgraded settings

We often see clients choose lab diamonds so they can design the ring or piece they really want—without compromise. It’s one of the reasons lab diamonds have become such a popular topic on our blog and in our custom design conversations.

Sustainability & Conflict-Free Peace of Mind

Another major reason lab diamonds are worth it? How they align with modern values. Today’s engagement ring couples are well-versed in environmental issues and human rights violations, and they want a gemstone that reflects their values.

Lab-grown diamonds offer:

• Conflict-free choices
• Avoid the environmental impact of traditional mining on the earth
• Greater transparency in sourcing

For many couples and gift-givers, this peace of mind is priceless. You know exactly where your diamond came from, and that the impact on the environment is minimal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lab Diamonds

Are lab diamonds real diamonds?

Yes. They are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds.

Do lab diamonds sparkle the same?

Absolutely! Sparkle comes from cut quality—not whether a diamond was mined or grown. A skilled diamond cutter makes the difference in the brilliancy of the stone.,

Will a lab diamond last forever?

Yes. Lab diamonds are just as durable as mined diamonds and perfect for everyday wear.

Do lab diamonds have resale value?

Lab diamonds retain value as fine jewelry, though resale pricing differs from mined diamonds. We always encourage choosing a any diamond for love and wear-ability, not for an investment.

Are lab diamonds right for engagement rings?

Absolutely. We design custom engagement rings with lab diamonds every day, and they’ve become a favorite choice for most of our couples.

Our Take: What Really Makes a Diamond “Worth It”

At the end of the day, a diamond’s worth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about meaning, intention, and joy. Ask any couple about their engagement ring and they’ll tell you a story about how it happened.

We feel that lab diamonds give our customers the freedom to choose beautiful, responsibly sourced gemstones, while staying within budget—and that’s something we proudly stand behind.

Thinking about a lab diamond for an engagement ring, anniversary gift, or custom redesign? We’d love to help you explore the options and find what feels right for you.

Because the best jewelry choices are informed ones—and the most valuable pieces are the ones you love wearing every day.